Response to Ofqual Expert Panel Press Release

IQ would like to thank all of those that have taken the time to respond to our recent call for an expert panel to be established to consider the problem of qualification fraud. The responses that have been received have been unanimous in their support for action to be taken; the only question has been the appetite of the authorities to tackle the issue.

In responding to the call for action from IQ, those with the authority to take action have stated that it is the responsibility of awarding organisations to deploy robust procedures. IQ acknowledges and accepts this responsibility in full and without qualification. However, the issue of fraud can only be tackled effectively if the wider system is sufficiently focused and tuned to identify and reduce opportunities for fraud. This is beyond the capability of any single awarding organisation, irrespective of how strong their procedures may be. A system that does not prosecute fraud and allows those involved in wrong doing to continue, needs review.

In a world where great confidence is placed on the integrity of UK based audit and assessment systems, both educational and other, we should work to ensure that this reputation is deserved and continues to provide opportunity post Brexit.

IQ has written to Ofqual CEO, Sally Collier, with a series of proposals that could help strengthen the current system. These ideas could indeed contribute to an opening agenda for an expert panel. To review the contents of the letter, please click here.